Crowdfunding Using IPTV Systems and Fundraising Methods

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates generally to Internet Protocol Television (IPTV). More specifically, the present invention is a method and device for IPTV crowdfunding or IPTV fundraising. The invented system allows for backers to fund campaigns using commissions paid out from services and products purchased using the system. It is also possible for backers to fund campaigns by volunteering to receive marketing materials or participating in marking presentations, or engaging in other marketing activities. It would also be possible for a backer to help fund a campaign by distributing marketing messages on social media platforms or getting other people to purchase a product or service they recommend. Any type of marketing activities which can generate a commission, referral fee, or reward, could be incorporated into our fundraising system, in order to allow for the funding of campaigns.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/274,141, filed Dec. 31, 2015, the entire contents ofwhich is hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as iffully set forth herein, under 35 U.S.C. 119(e).

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

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THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

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INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC OR ASA TEXT FILE VIA THE OFFICE ELECTRONIC FILING SYSTEM (EFS-WEB)

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STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR

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BACKGROUND

Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in thissection are not prior art to the claims in this application and are notadmitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to Internet Protocol Television(IPTV). More specifically, the present invention is a method andapparatus for IPTV crowdfunding or IPTV fundraising.

2. Description of Related Art

IPTV refers to the delivery of television content using signals based onthe logical Internet Protocol (IP), rather than through traditionalterrestrial, satellite signal, and cable television formats. Thus, IPTVtelevision is distributed over an IP network, which is the same kind ofnetwork used to surf the internet and exchange emails. Using IPTVtechnology, it is easy to distribute terrestrial and satellitetelevision and radio, videos, Digital Versatile Disc (DVDs), digitalVideo-On-Demand (VOD), digital signage, information boards, and webcontent to a facility or home. All of this multimedia content can beviewed on standard and high-definition televisions as well as personalcomputers.

A major benefit of IPTV and Internet television is Over-The-Top (OTT)content, which is the delivery of audio, video, and other media over theInternet without the involvement of a multiple-system operator in thecontrol or distribution of the content. OTT is delivered through theopen, unmanaged Internet, with the “last-mile” telecom company actingonly as the Internet service provider. Both IPTV and OTT use theInternet protocol suite over a packet-switched network to transmit data,but IPTV operates in a closed system, which is a dedicated, managednetwork controlled by the local cable, satellite, telephone, or fibercompany.

The public Internet is used for transmission from the streaming serversto the consumer. A receiver, which must have an Internet connection(typically by Wi-Fi or Ethernet) could be a web browser running on apersonal computer, which is typically controlled by a computer mouse andkeyboard, or mobile device, such as Firefox, Google Chrome, or InternetExplorer. A receiver may also be a mobile app running on a smartphone ortablet computer or a dedicated digital media player, which typically hasa remote control. Such players can take the form of a small box, or evena stick that plugs directly into an HDMI port. Examples include Roku,Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Google TV, Boxee, and WD TV. Sometimes theseboxes allow the streaming of content from the local network or storagedrive, which typically provides an indirect connection between atelevision and computer or USB stick. One example includes SmartTV,which has Internet capability and built-in software accessed with theremote control. Another example includes a DVD player or Blu-ray playerwith Internet capabilities in addition to its primary function ofplaying content from physical discs. Still another example includes aset-top box or digital video recorder provided by the cable or satellitecompany. A further example includes an independent party like TiVo,which has Internet capabilities in addition to its primary function ofreceiving and recording programming from the non-Internet cable orsatellite connection. Display devices include a television set or videoprojector linked to the receiver with a video connector, such as a HDMI,a computer monitor, and the built-in display of a smartphone or tablet.

Not all receivers can access all content providers. Most have web sitesthat allow for the viewing of content in a web browser, but sometimesthis is not done due to digital rights management concerns. While a webbrowser has access to any web site, some consumers find it inconvenientto control their viewing with a mouse and keyboard, and inconvenient orconfusing to connect a computer to their television. Many providers havemobile apps dedicated to receiving only their own content. Manufacturersof SmartTVs, boxes, sticks, and players must decide which providers tosupport, which is typically based on popularity, common corporateownership, or the receipt of payment from the provider.

Content providers that are rushing to create direct-to-consumerSubscription-Video-On-Demand (SVOD) offerings, are finding thatrepackaging television content may not be enough to make the servicessuccessful. Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) is acommunication channel defined in the 4G cellular networking standardcalled Long Term Evolution (LTE). The transmission mode is intended as afurther improvement in the efficiency of the enhanced MultimediaBroadcast Multicast Service (eMBMS) service, which can deliver servicessuch as mobile television using the LTE infrastructure, and is expectedto compete with dedicated mobile and handheld television broadcastsystems such as Digital Video Broadcasting-Handheld (DVB-H) and DigitalVideo Broadcasting-Satellite services to Handhelds (DVB-SH). Thisenables network operators to offer mobile television without the needfor an additional expensive licensed spectrum and without requiring newinfrastructure and end-user devices. The MBSFN transmission mode furtherimproves the spectral efficiency, since it is based on the principles ofDynamic Single Frequency Networks (DSFN). This implies that itdynamically forms Single Frequency Networks (SFNs), which are groups ofadjacent base stations that send the same signal simultaneously on thesame frequency sub-carriers, when there are mobile television viewers ofthe same television program content in the adjacent cells.

Many people who create campaigns need financial supporters. Althoughmany people want to support these creators, it is not easy for thesepotential supporters to do so. This is because there is currently nowebsite, app, or IPTV broadcasting network that allows for fundingcampaigns to be created, where supporters can effectively direct fundsto the creator of the campaign using a method other than direct payment.Additionally, there are no systems that operate using IPTV networks,which would enable the streaming of high resolution videos, including,but not limited to the 4K standard. The term “4K resolution” refers to ahorizontal resolution of approximately 4,000 pixels. The use of “width”to characterize the overall resolution marks a switch from previoustelevision standards such as 480i and 1080p, which categorize mediaaccording to its vertical dimension. Using that same convention, 4K UHDwould be called 2160p.

Digital Cinema Initiatives, LLC (DCI) is a joint venture of major motionpicture studios, formed to establish a standard architecture for digitalcinema systems. There are two main 4K resolution standards. The first isthe DCI 4K resolution standard, which has a resolution of 4096×2160pixels (256:135, approximately a 1.9:1 aspect ratio). This standard iswidely respected by the film and video production industry. The DCI 4Kstandard has twice the horizontal and vertical resolution of DCI 2K. Thesecond is the 4K Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV) or “UHD-1”standard, which has a resolution of 3840×2160 (16:9, or approximately a1.78:1 aspect ratio). This standard is mostly used in consumertelevision and media. This standard has twice the horizontal andvertical resolution of 1080p. Manufacturers may advertise their productsas UHD 4K, or simply 4K, when the term 4K is traditionally reserved forthe cinematic, DCI resolution. This often causes confusion amongconsumers.

Accordingly, there is a need for a device or a method where a website,app, or IPTV broadcasting network allows for funding campaigns to becreated in which users can effectively direct funds to the creator ofthe campaign using a method other than direct payment. Additionally,there is a need for a method that operates using Internet ProtocolTelevision, or IPTV networks, which would enable the streaming of highresolution videos.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is a principal object to solve at least one of the disadvantages withother attempted solutions or to create other utility by providing adevice or a method where a website, app, or IPTV broadcasting networkallows for funding campaigns to be created in which users can eithereffectively direct funds to the creator of the campaign using a methodother than direct payment, where the method operates using eitherInternet Protocol Television, IPTV networks, streaming high resolutionvideos, or a similar method.

The present disclosure is an invention that is a system including anIPTV broadcasting network and mobile application that allows for usersof the system to do fundraising and to fund campaigns using alternativemethods other than direct payment, as well as to allow for the fundingof campaigns to happen at the point of sale using point of saleterminals. Current methods for fundraising online today, allows forusers to create fundraising campaigns and other users to support thecampaigns. The users who create such campaigns are typically referred toas “creators,” while the users who support such campaigns financiallyare typically referred to as “backers.” Campaigns typically have aspecific funding period and a financial goal which the campaign istrying to reach. The money that is pledged from backers is sometimesonly distributed to the campaigns if the goal of the campaign is reachedbefore the funding period of the campaign ends. The system is open toanyone to back campaigns and to creators from the United States andseveral other countries. For the purposes of this disclosure, “users”are IPTV viewers or mobile application users.

The proposed solution improves upon traditional online fundraisingsystems by allowing backers to fund campaigns by viewing an IPTVbroadcasting network and by using other methods other than direct moneytransfer. It is also possible to fund campaigns at the point of sale in,for example, retail stores. The system allows for backers to fundcampaigns using commissions or rewards received by purchasing productsand services. It is also possible for backers to fund campaigns byvolunteering to receive marketing materials or participating in markingpresentations, or engaging in other marketing activities. It would alsobe possible for a backer to help fund a campaign by distributingmarketing messages on social media platforms or getting other people topurchase a product or service they recommend. Any type of marketingactivities which can generate a commission, referral fee, or rewardcould be incorporated into our fundraising system, in order to allow forthe funding of campaigns.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several aspects described below.

FIG. 1 shows a prior art architecture example of an end-to-end IPTVsystem.

FIG. 2 shows a functional IPTV crowdfunding system enabling the creationof fundraising campaigns in which at least one of the embodiments ofthis invention is implemented.

FIG. 3 shows an aspect of the IPTV crowdfunding system, once a campaignhas been created by user, allowing for backers to support campaigns inwhich at least one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 4 shows, by means of the IPTV crowdfunding system that fundingcampaigns can be displayed on a number of different devices in which atleast one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 5 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system comprising an IPTV server onthe network enabling campaign creators to interact with campaignbackers, in which at least one of the embodiments of this invention isimplemented.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 6A shows IPTV crowdfunding with live-to-VOD clips,on-the-fly integrated EPG information, and a television displayreceiving information from the middleware program of the IPTVcrowdfunding system in which at least one of the embodiments of thisinvention is implemented.

FIG. 7 and FIG. 7A shows a campaign overview screen from the IPTVcrowdfunding system with live-to-VOD clips, on-the-fly integrated EPGinformation, a television display, or mobile devices in which at leastone of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 8 and FIG. 8A Shows an IPTV crowdfunding user interface withbuttons allowing users to navigate to different campaigns from differentcategories in which at least one of the embodiments of this invention isimplemented.

FIG. 9 and FIG. 9A shows IPTV crowdfunding programming content withlive-to-VOD clips and on-the-fly integrated EPG information in which atleast one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 10 shows an IPTV crowdfunding system interface on a screen with anumber of different app icons that can be selected in which at least oneof the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 11 shows IPTV crowdfunding with a search browser on the screen thatmay appear after selecting the crowdfunding app icon in which at leastone of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 12 shows what may be displayed, including multiple campaigns shownin a continuous channel format, after a user selects a funding campaigncategory on the screen or using the buttons on the screen in FIG. 11, orany other way of navigating to this screen in which at least one of theembodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 13 shows a remote control used for controlling the IPTVcrowdfunding system including a digital television in which at least oneof the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 14 shows a case for a remote control used for controlling the IPTVsystem including a digital television in which at least one of theembodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 15 shows a multiple app interface of the IPTV crowdfunding systemthat may appear after a user selects the button on FIG. 12 to buy aproduct or service in order to support the funding campaign of choice inwhich at least one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 16 shows an alternative layout of the IPTV crowdfunding system tothe layout of FIG. 12, in which the support methods window is inset intothe framing of the video in which at least one of the embodiments ofthis invention is implemented.

FIG. 17 shows the ability to promote related campaigns with the IPTVcrowdfunding system including live-to-VOD clips, on-the-fly integratedEPG information on the screen, with multiple programming offerings andfunding campaign videos in which at least one of the embodiments of thisinvention is implemented.

FIG. 18 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system with programming contentincluding a live broadcast video, and integrated EPG information, withthe option of backing the campaign in which at least one of theembodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 19 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system including live programmingcontent, integrated EPG information, and a campaign overview screen asviewed on a smartphone in which at least one of the embodiments of thisinvention is implemented

FIG. 20 shows a user viewing a campaign overview screen on the IPTVcrowdfunding system, formatted for a personal computer in which at leastone of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 21 shows how a user of the IPTV crowdfunding system or mobileapplication can choose to back a campaign by choosing to buy a serviceor product in which at least one of the embodiments of this invention isimplemented.

FIG. 22 shows how a user of the IPTV crowdfunding system or mobileapplication can see a screen displaying the title of the campaign and adescription; a video can also appear on the same screen in which atleast one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 23 shows an embodiment of the IPTV crowdfunding system comprising amethod of funding a campaign in which a backer chooses to participate ina sales call in which they will hear a short sales presentation in whichat least one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 24 shows that it is possible for a user to choose to support acampaign through purchasing products in which at least one of theembodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 25 shows, using the IPTV crowdfunding system, that it is possibleto support a campaign by purchasing utilities, such as electricity, inwhich at least one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 26 shows, with the IPTV crowdfunding system, that it is possiblefor campaigns to be funded at the point of sale in physical stores,kiosks, or within mobile point of sale devices in which at least one ofthe embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 27 shows an aspect of a particular embodiment of the IPTVcrowdfunding system including a number of steps in which a campaign issupported by either purchasing a product or service in which at leastone of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 28 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system wherein a campaign is createdby a campaign creator, a backer pledges money, chooses a reward, and ifthe campaign raises enough money to reach the campaign goal, a directpayment is made from the backer to the campaign in which at least one ofthe embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 29 shows an originally invented device we call the “HDMI CABLEdevice” in which at least one of the embodiments of this invention isimplemented.

FIG. 30 shows an originally invented device which we call the “HDMICABLE device” in which at least one of the embodiments of this inventionis implemented.

FIG. 31 shows a system including the HDMI cable device connected to theIPTV crowdfunding system comprising a gigabit network, an operatingsystem software and a System On a Chip (SOC) in which at least one ofthe embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 32 shows when the user is already subscribed to the IPTVcrowdfunding system and is optionally prompted to select her broadbandinternet in GBPS (billions of bits per second) 500 in which at least oneof the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 33 shows how after the user has already selected the internet speedthe user can also select the system of preference in which at least oneof the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 34 shows how once the user has determined the system of herpreference she is also able to select her operating system 530, in whichat least one of the embodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 35 shows a multiple media player in which at least one of theembodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 36 shows how the user can enjoy the system including, an AugmentedReality (AR) device or virtual reality device including HoloLens 545,live television and crowdfunding in which at least one of theembodiments of this invention is implemented.

FIG. 37 shows another view of an augmented reality device or VirtualReality (VR) device in which at least one of the embodiments of thisinvention is implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to anyparticular embodiment described, which may vary. Also, it is to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to belimiting, since the scope of this invention will be limited only by theappended claims.

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are setforth in order to explain and provide a thorough understanding of thepresent invention. However, it is apparent that the present inventionmay be practiced without all of these specific details. Thus, allillustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing versionsof the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of theinvention

In the following section, the present invention is described fully byreferencing the details in the enclosed drawings, which illustratecertain embodiments of the invention. The numbers shown in thisspecification refer to the corresponding numbers in the encloseddrawings. The terminology used is to describe the particular embodimentshown and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Theinvention may also be embodied in many other forms in addition to theembodiments shown. Thus, the embodiments shown should not be construedas limiting, but rather, to allow a thorough and complete description ofthe disclosure that conveys the scope of the invention to a personhaving ordinary skill in the art in the field of this invention.Therefore, for the terms used herein, the singular forms “the,” “a,” and“an” are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singularforms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “and”includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associatedlisted items. As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “comprises”when used in this specification, identify specific steps, integers,operations, features, components, and elements, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more other steps, operations, features,components, and elements. In addition, the features, components, andelements referenced may be exaggerated for clarity.

Unless otherwise defined, all scientific terms, technical terms, orother terms used herein have the same meaning as the term that isunderstood by one having ordinary skill in the art in the field of thisinvention. It is also understood that these terms, including theirdictionary meaning, should be understood as having the meaning, which isconsistent with their definitions in the related relevant art. Inaddition, the present disclosure is not to be interpreted in anidealized or overly formal sense unless expressly stated so herein.Constructions or functions that are well known in the art may not befully described in detail for brevity.

In describing the invention, it is understood that a number of steps andmethods may be disclosed. Each of these may have individual benefit.Also, each may be used in conjunction with at least one or more of thedisclosed steps and methods. Therefore, this description will refrainfrom stating each and every possible combination of the individual stepsand methods for the sake of brevity. Regardless, the specification andrelated claims should be understood with the combinations that areentirely within the scope of the claims and inventions.

The disclosure in this invention are examples of how it may beimplemented and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention tothe specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings or thedescription provided herein. The present invention will now be describedby example in the following paragraphs by referencing the accompanyingdrawings, which represent embodiments and alternative embodiments.

All illustrations are for the purpose of describing selected versions ofthe present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of thepresent invention.

FIG. 1 shows a prior art architecture example of an end-to-end IPTVsystem. The end-to-end IPTV system consists of head-end equipment anduser-end equipment coupled via a broadband IP network to receiveappropriate audio/video and general IP traffic data. The head-endequipment includes a streaming server, a video server, and a level IIIdevice. A level III device is a switch or router that supports multicasttransmission. The router or switch resides at the head-end, interfacingwith the network. Another router or switch receives data at the centraloffice and transmits either to a Digital Subscriber Line AccessMultiplexer (DSLAM) located there, or directly to equipment in the userend. A DSLAM is a network device, usually at a telephone company centraloffice, that receives signals from multiple customer Digital SubscriberLine (DSL) connections and puts the signals on a high-speed backboneline using multiplexing techniques. The streaming server encodes andstreams live streams in real-time and pre-encoded streams that arestored on the video server. The streaming server transmits the streamsto the switch or router which transfers them over the backbone to thecentral or remote offices, and then to the end user location.

Video servers fulfill several purposes. For store and forwardtransmissions, video servers store digitally encoded content and streamit through level III devices via operators' networking infrastructure.Video servers receive newly encoded digital content that is uploadedfrom the streaming server. Video servers also enable time shiftedtelevision applications. Viewers at home can then watch any program at atime convenient to them.

The user-end equipment is coupled to the broadband IP network andconfigured to receive the TV/IP stream. The user end may include anexternal or internally integrated modem, such as a DSL, cable orsatellite modem, or may be a wireless WiMAX, Wi-Fi or the like wirelesstelecommunications modem. This modem receives the stream from the DSLAMor Level III device and transfers it directly to the user-end equipment,for example a PC for display on the desktop or to the IP Set-Top Box(STB) for display directly on a TV. An IP STB functions as a gatewaybetween the television set/PC and the broadband IP network via a PublicSwitched Telephone Network (PSTN), satellite or cable link. In thisregard, an IP STB provides all the necessary signalprocessing-receiving, and decoding/decompressing, as well as alsoaccepts commands from the user and transmits these commands back to thenetwork, often through a back channel.

The above described advanced IP STBs are capable of functioning, amongother ways, as a television signal receiver, a modem, a game console, aweb browser, as well as support e-mail capabilities, video-conferencing,and IP telephony over a broadband network link. In addition, advanced IPSTBs may be equipped with additional components and functionality suchas with Electronic Program Guide (EPG), CD ROM, DVD player, and thelike. IPTV network capable STBs include bandwidth dimensioning as IPTVand VOD services require high bandwidth capacities and predictableperformance, placing additional requirements on the network. Whendesigning an STB it is known to take into consideration compression andcoding technology transmission rate requirements. The key parts includehardware, a data network interface, a decoder, a memory buffer, andsynchronization hardware routines.

FIG. 2 shows a functional IPTV crowdfunding system enabling the creationof fundraising campaigns. A campaign comprises a title, a description,VOD, live streaming video, pictures, text chat, voice chat, and videochat.

A campaign may be created using a number of electronic devices connectedto an IP network 10 including personal computers 19, smart phones 20,digital tablets 21, smart watches 22, or media devices comprisingcameras 18 and similar devices. These devices may be connected to the IPnetwork 10 to input recorded video content as well as live broadcastingvideo content. More broadly the IPTV crowdfunding system comprises, IPencoders 17, VOD servers 11, network switches 109, IPTV gateways 15,IPTV switches 14, digital televisions 35, middleware, EPG servers 16,and middleware servers, IPTV management servers, switches, and datastorage. The middleware software comprises a graphical user interface,codec manager, conditional access manager, conditional access interface,crowdfunding campaign management interface, media interface, eventsinterface, system settings interface, 3^(rd) party system interface, andpresentation manager. The IPTV crowdfunding network may operate atvarious speeds including but not limited to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 200GBPS.

It is also possible to use the system to support funding campaigns bybacking a campaign financially using a device connected to the network.Backers may also view live broadcast video, VOD services, crowdfundingcampaign videos and live streaming video content, as well as interactwith campaign creators via live video/text/audio chat.

FIG. 3 shows an aspect of the IPTV crowdfunding system, once a campaignhas been created by user, allowing for backers to support campaigns,comprising: a live television stream, integrated DVR controls, multiplecamera and audio feeds, the ability to stream multiple channels orevents simultaneously, instant replay of live broadcasts, real-time dataand social feeds published live-to-VOD clips, on-the-fly integrated EPGinformation, the ability to deliver personalized content and experienceson a number of different devices including personal computers 24, mobilecomputers, laptops, tablets, a television 71, and smartphones 25,connected to a network 23 to support funding campaigns.

FIG. 4 shows by means of the IPTV crowdfunding system that fundingcampaigns can be displayed on a number of different devices, which areconnected to the network 26. These devices include point of saleterminals 27, televisions 28 that are connected to the network 26 via aset-top box 29 or a dongle 30, handheld entertainment and gaming devices31 including virtual reality and augmented reality headsets, andsmartwatches 32.

FIG. 5 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system comprising an IPTV server onthe network 33 enabling campaign creators 37 to interact with campaignbackers 35 through live video chat, Voice-Over-IP (VOIP), and text chat.Campaign creators can input necessary information into the IPTVcrowdfunding system 34, via other networks 33, including internet andthird-party networks. Campaign viewers and backers can access the IPTVcrowdfunding system 34 via other networks 36 including the internet orvia private gateway networks.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 6A shows IPTV crowdfunding with live-to-VOD clips,on-the-fly integrated EPG information, and a television displayreceiving information from the middleware program of the IPTVcrowdfunding system. As shown on FIG. 6A, on the screen appears anoverview of a campaign 800, including a streaming video, the number ofpeople supporting the campaign, the total amount of money raised by thecampaign, funding period, and a button to initiate support of thecampaign. Note that supporting a campaign is the same thing as backing acampaign. Also, within the screen appears an in-frame view of aprogramming schedule allowing for navigation to other campaigns.

FIG. 7 and FIG. 7A shows a campaign overview screen 900 from the IPTVcrowdfunding system with live-to-VOD clips, on-the-fly integrated EPGinformation, a television display, or mobile devices including asmartphone and digital tablet, receiving information from the middlewareprogram of the IPTV crowdfunding system.

FIG. 8 and FIG. 8A shows an IPTV crowdfunding user interface 901 withbuttons allowing users to navigate to different campaigns from differentcategories. The campaigns in each category can be viewed eitherindividually or linked together into a continuous broadcasting channel.

FIG. 9 and FIG. 9A shows IPTV crowdfunding programming content 903 withlive-to-VOD clips and on-the-fly Integrated EPG information. Theinterface shown is for a system comprising: a system settings interface,a streaming video, campaign information including the number of peoplesupporting the campaign, amount of money raised by the campaign, daysleft in the campaign, two featured campaigns with thumbnail images andcampaign descriptions, an in-frame broadcasting schedule, a navigationbar for navigating to other campaigns, a button allowing users to starttheir own campaign, and a settings button.

FIG. 10 shows an IPTV crowdfunding system interface 41 on a screen of adigital television 38 with a number of different app icons that can beselected, such as an IPTV Crowdfunding Fundraising channel button 42, bya person using the IPTV crowdfunding system 40. The system comprisesbroadcasting networks, a middleware component for broadcasting networksincluding ABC, CNN, CBC, and MTV, wherein the IPTV crowdfunding systemallows for the addition of Internet television, a type of over-the-topcontent, or peer-to-peer video hosting service such as YouTube, Vimeo,or IPTV crowdfunding. Also, included in the system are the capabilitiesof a physical smart television or set top box comprising: a web browser,such as Firefox or Google Chrome and 3^(rd) party apps, including theability to operate a cloud desktop, remote desktop, virtual desktop, orDesktop-As-A-Service (DAAS) (typically controlled by computer mouse andkeyboard) via browser or app interface.

FIG. 11 shows IPTV crowdfunding on a digital television 44 with a searchbrowser on the screen 43 that may appear after selecting thecrowdfunding app icon by a person 45 using the IPTV system. On thescreen is included a selection of campaigns, a search button or box, alink to categories of campaigns, and a settings link. It is alsopossible to start playing a continuous stream of campaign videos.

FIG. 12 shows what may be displayed, including multiple campaigns shownin a continuous channel format 46, after a user selects a fundingcampaign category on the screen or using the buttons on the screen inFIG. 11, or any other way of navigating to this screen. This screenincludes a menu for navigating to different campaigns. Once the user hasnavigated to a campaign on the system, it is possible to watch a video,read the title and description of the campaign, as well as viewadditional supporting images or videos. Unlike current website-basedsystems, our system allows for the backing of campaigns while a video isplaying. If a user decides to support a campaign, it is possible toclick on a support button on the screen while a video is playing. Thisalso allows for the backing of campaigns that include live streamingvideo. Once the button to back the campaign is pressed, an inset orfloating window can appear, allowing for the selection of differentmethods of supporting a campaign. These methods include purchasing aproduct or service, donating or pledging money, and applying a reward.

One aspect of the disclosure is a method of live content with an EPG,and an IPTV crowdfunding system configured to perform the method or atleast a portion thereof. The method comprises some or all of thefollowing acts:

FIG. 2, FIG. 11, and FIG. 12 show a functional IPTV crowdfunding systemenabling the creation of fundraising campaigns. A campaign comprises atitle, a description, VOD, live streaming video, pictures, text chat,voice chat, and video chat, live streaming video with live chat. Anotheraspect of the disclosure is an IPTV crowdfunding system orcomputer-implemented method.

FIG. 13 shows a remote control used for controlling the IPTVcrowdfunding system including a digital TV. It is possible with thissystem to include either a physical button 47 or a button on a screenembedded into the remote control 48 to start backing a campaign. Thiswould be similar to selecting a button on the screen of the televisionto back a campaign, but the process would be made easier, by placing thebutton on the remote control. It is also possible with our IPTVcrowdfunding system to back a campaign with one click. If the userindicates in advance their preferred default backing amount (i.e. $20),and that information is stored on the network, it is possible to allowusers to back a project by clicking once on a button on the remotecontrol or its case, or by selecting the one-click support button on thescreen of the remote control or on the screen of an electronic deviceconnected to the IPTV network. It is also possible to use a smartphone,tablet, smartwatch, motion controller used with VR or AR system, or anyother device with software and hardware allowing the device to functionas a remote control with the features described above including oneclick funding of campaigns. It is also possible to support a campaignwith two clicks, for screen interfaces, where the first click indicatesan intent to support the campaign and the second click would be on adropdown, popup, or scroll menu, indicating the funding amount.

FIG. 14 shows a case for a remote control 49 used for controlling theIPTV system including a digital TV. It is possible to include either aphysical button 47 or a button on a screen embedded into the case forthe remote control to start backing a campaign. This would be similar toselecting a button on the screen of the television to back a campaign,but it would make it easier, by placing the button on the case for theremote control.

FIG. 15 shows a multiple app interface of the IPTV crowdfunding systemthat may appear on the screen 300 of a digital television 301 after auser 302 selects one of the support buttons on FIG. 12 to buy a productor service, donate, or apply a reward to support the funding campaign ofchoice. One possible product type is an application or paid mediacontent, including OTT services and VOD offerings, purchased anddelivered over the IPTV crowdfunding system. It is also possible to buydigital products from other networks and have them delivered to the uservia the IPTV crowdfunding system.

FIG. 16 shows an alternative layout of the IPTV crowdfunding system tothe layout shown in FIG. 12, in which the support methods window isinserted into the framing of the video. In addition, two other methodsfor supporting a campaign are shown. One is to call a phone number 53,and the other is to sign up for a service. FIG. 16 also shows adescription of the campaign 55, an EPG 45, a campaign video 44, acampaign title 54, a campaign support screen 43, a support button 56, asupport methods menu 49, a person using IPTV crowdfunding system 50, abuy a product button 51, a direct payment button 52, a digitaltelevision 57. And a call phone number button 53, where after the call acommission or fee is transferred to the campaign if the backer meetscertain conditions.

FIG. 17 shows the ability to promote related campaigns with the IPTVcrowdfunding system including live-to-VOD clips, on-the-fly integratedEPG information on the screen, with multiple programming offerings andfunding campaign videos. The user is able to select multiple relatedcampaigns for backing all at the same time. It is also possible todivide a single amount of funding into equal parts for equal funding ofeach of the related campaigns.

FIG. 18 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system with programming contentincluding a live broadcast video 200, and integrated EPG information,with the option of backing the campaign. It is possible to back acampaign using a button that appears next to the video, and the processof backing the campaign can be completed while the video is playing.FIG. 18 also shows a live campaign screen 201, an EPG integratedinformation on screen 202, a Support button 203, and a Campaigns menu204.

FIG. 19 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system including live programmingcontent, integrated EPG information, and a campaign overview screen asviewed on a smartphone 61. There is also an in-frame navigation menu.FIG. 19 also shows a featured product 62, a video of campaign creator60, a campaign channels menu 59, an EPG information for mobile devices63, a support Button 64, and a campaign menu button 65.

FIG. 20 shows a user viewing a campaign video 69 on a campaign overviewscreen of the IPTV crowdfunding system, formatted for a personalcomputer 66. The user may be a backer or a campaign creator. FIG. 20also shows a Support Button 68 and a campaign title 70.

FIG. 21 shows how a user 73 of the IPTV crowdfunding system or mobileapplication can choose to back a campaign by choosing to buy a serviceor product through a third party business network 74 by submitting arequest and performing a transaction with the third party business viathe IPTV crowdfunding Network 75. The company whose product or serviceis purchased pays a commission, which is transferred to the campaigncreator 76, minus a fee that is retained by the IPTV crowdfundingcompany.

FIG. 22 shows how a user of the IPTV crowdfunding system or mobileapplication can see a screen displaying the title of the campaign and adescription, where a video 77 can also appear on the same screen. On thescreen also appears a button 78 that, if pressed, allows the user tosupport the campaign. Once the user presses the button, a new screen orpopup menu 708 appears in which the user can choose how they would liketo support the campaign by choosing to call a phone number 83, buy aproduct 80, buy a service 79, making a direct payment 81 using a creditcard, or another means of payment. The user might enter any number ofdifferent screens that will assist them in purchasing a product orservice and entering their billing or credit card information or othermeans of payment. After each method of payment or funding is used, afunding amount will appear that totals all the different methods offunding which will be directed to the campaign. A button may be pressedto confirm and finalize the transaction 82.

FIG. 23 shows an embodiment of the IPTV crowdfunding system comprising amethod of funding a campaign in which a backer chooses to participate ina sales call in which they will hear a short sales presentation. Theymay also be asked to answer some questions and remain on the call for acertain duration of time. If they complete the call successfully, then afee would be charged to the advertiser and that money would be directedto a campaign. FIG. 23 also shows a video on demand 84, a support button85, a photo or logo 86, confirm support button 87, and call phone numbermethod button 88.

FIG. 24 shows that it is possible for a user to choose to support acampaign shown on a VOD 89 through purchasing products, such as 91 and92. If a user chooses to use this method to support a campaign, theywill be presented with any number of products which they can buy using acredit card or other payment method. Some products that a user mightpurchase in order to support a campaign might be consumer electronics,computer equipment, clothing, toys, furniture, or any other productwhich can be bought online with the assistance of a support button 90.

FIG. 25 shows, using the IPTV crowdfunding system, that it is possibleto support a campaign by purchasing utilities, such as electricity. If auser selects this option in order to support a campaign, they will bedirected to enter information from their electric bill 94, includingtheir account number, and any number of additional data required to signup for new electric services. Once the user has completed the form 93,and the information is verified, a commission can be directed to supporta campaign.

FIG. 26 shows, with the IPTV crowdfunding system, that it is possiblefor campaigns to be funded at the point of sale in physical stores,kiosks, or within mobile point of sale devices. At the point ofcheckout, a customer can be asked if they would like to support acampaign of their choice. One or more campaigns, such as 95, 96, and 99can be displayed on the point of sale device 97, and the user can chooseto support the campaign using methods including, rounding up the totalamount of their purchase to the nearest dollar, adding an additionalamount of money to the total, or transferring a reward or credit basedon membership in a rewards program. A point of sale device 98 may alsoinclude websites and apps running on a client device, including asmartphone, tablet, or personal computer.

FIG. 27 shows an aspect of a particular embodiment of the IPTVcrowdfunding system including a number of steps in which a campaign issupported by either purchasing a product or service.

FIG. 28 shows the IPTV crowdfunding system wherein a campaign is createdby a campaign creator, a backer pledges money, chooses a reward, and ifthe campaign raises enough money to reach the campaign goal, a directpayment is made from the backer to the campaign.

FIG. 29 shows an originally invented device herein referred to as the“HDMI Cable device” that may comprise a HDMI plug 707, a HDMI Plug CrimpConnector 708, and a PCB board 709, where the board is inserted orassembled inside the cable assembly. The HDMI Cable device may alsocomprise a WIFI or Bluetooth connection to other devices 705 and a PCBboard that contains a 5 g modem 702 that is inserted or assembled insidethe cable assembly, where it has an on and off button and shows a cellsignal bar 704. In addition, the HDMI Cable device may comprise a SIMcard 700 and either a SIM card slot or a SIM Card Reader 703.Furthermore, the HDMI Cable device may comprise an USB PLUG 701, aremote control 710, wireless keyboard 711, and wireless mouse 712. Thisdevice provides access to the IPTV crowdfunding system or other IPTVsystems including Roku, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, or Google TV.

FIG. 30 also shows an embodiment of the “HDMI Cable device,” comprisinga processor or wireless modem with SOC 801, with software which hasaccess to our IPTV crowdfunding system; a USB PLUG connecting to a USBport that gives power 803, where this voltage is received by a PrintedCircuit Board (PCB) board 802; a USB PLUG 803 with a SIM card slot orSIM card reader connected to the PCB board 802, which has a processor ormodem 801 to authorize the subscription from a telecom provider ormobile provider, a video processor 809, and an antenna for receiving asignal from a mobile provider 810. The signals which the device can usefor sending and receiving data are: Wi-Fi, LTE network, 5 G network, LTEadvanced pro, 5 G mmWave, 4 g, and WiMAX. The signals are processed by801.

PCB Board 800 has a modem. When the modem receives the signal from theprovider, it converts the data signal, and sends it via the cable 808,which is the cable that connects to the PCB 806. There is at least onewireless module or video processor or CPU coupled to 806, which is theprinted circuit board coupled to an antenna 805. The antenna sends andreceives a Wi-Fi signal to any device. The HDMI plug 804 connects to adisplay or television allowing a user to watch a video displayed in 4KUHD format, high-definition television, or in any resolution including1080p.

FIG. 31 shows an IPTV system with GBPS data speeds 813 including theHDMI cable device connected to the IPTV crowdfunding system comprising agigabit network, an operating system software 812 and a SOC 811.

FIG. 32 shows when the user is already subscribed to the IPTVcrowdfunding system and is optionally prompted to select her broadbandinternet in GBPS 500. The user will use the system 501 to selectinternet speed 503. The user determines her internet in GBPS 502. Theuser determines her internet download speeds as high as 20 GBPS 504, 30GBPS 505, 40 GBPS 506, or 50 GBPS 507. It is also possible for the IPTVcrowdfunding system to automatically determine the optimal internetspeed for the user.

FIG. 33 shows the user can also select the system of preference. Theoptions include the IPTV crowdfunding system 521, cloud computer system522, and both systems 523. FIG. 33 also shows a selective interface 520that the user clicks or selects. In addition, FIG. 33 shows moreinterface buttons, such as 524, 525, and 526 for selecting an operatingsystem as a user preference.

FIG. 34 shows the user is also able to select her Operating System (OS)530, including the Apple OS 531, the Microsoft Windows OS 537, theAndroid OS 536, the Blackberry OS 534, the Google Chrome OS 533, or anyother OS 532. FIG. 34 also shows detail 535 where the user accepts theterms and conditions of operations, performance, and privacy.

FIG. 35 shows how the user can enjoy the system including, an augmentedreality device or virtual reality device including HoloLens 545, livetelevision and crowdfunding where the user can fund campaigns 546, othersystems 547 and 548, and a multiple media player that is used to viewlive television or other media 540.

FIG. 35 also shows service offering applications such as, web browser,e-mail capabilities, video-conferencing or any app 541 available in themarket with any number of functions running on the OS 542, which is theoperating system that the user previously selected. The user only has toselect the button, to use the operating system over a gigabit network543 that has speeds measured in GBPS. In addition, FIG. 36 also shows aVR button 544 for launching AR or VR enabled apps.

FIG. 36 shows a user 115 using motion controllers 114 and hand gestures115, and combinations thereof, with an AR headset, i.e. Hololens, 110,where the user is viewing a campaign overview from the IPTV crowdfundingsystem using mixed reality including a virtual screen, window, ordesktop 112. A 3D model of the item, i.e. a chair, 111 in the campaignoverview video is displayed in virtual 3D space, in order for the userto better understand the item that is part of the campaign. It is alsopossible to view 3D models and back campaigns using the buttons on thehand controllers, voice commands, hand gestures, or other methods ofinput using an AR and VR system.

FIG. 37 also shows a user using motion controllers 114 with a VR headset113.

At least one embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 2. Thisshows a method of crowdfunding, where campaign information is receivedfrom at least one campaign creator through an IPTV crowdfunding systemover an IP network to a host computer with a non-transitory computerreadable medium. The campaign information is stored on the host computerand displayed on a device, such as a digital television, a videoprojector, a computer monitor, a smartwatch, a smartphone, or a tablet.

The IPTV crowdfunding system generates a campaign overview with asupport button or support link to support a campaign and identify abacker of the campaign. The IPTV crowdfunding system operates byreceiving a funding commitment from at least one campaign backer throughan electronic device over an IP network to a host computer with anon-transitory computer readable medium. The IPTV crowdfunding systemalso sends the funding commitment to the campaign creator.

The campaign information may also be transmitted to a third party pointof sale device, where one or more users can make a funding commitment toa campaign. To complete a transaction via a point of sale device, theuser chooses their funding amount on the 3rd party device and a fundingamount is transferred to the IPTV crowdfunding system.

The campaign information may comprise a title, description, fundingamount, and identifier of the campaign creator. The campaign informationmay also comprise recorded video content, VOD, live video content, livestreaming video, pictures, live text chat, live voice chat, and livevideo chat.

The support button associated with the crowdfunding campaign isdisplayed on a device, such as a digital television, with a remotecontrol, app, or other digital device that allows for IPTV crowdfunding.Backers may support a campaign with other forms of input such as a voicecommand, hand gestures, or body movement. Backers may also support acampaign with an electronic device with a display, allowing forone-touch and two-touch backing of campaigns. The electronic device mayalso be a personal computer, smart phone, digital tablet, smart watch,camera, or another media device. It is also possible to use multipledevices in combination, for example if a user has a smart home speakeror other smart home device with a microphone that is connected to theIPTV crowdfunding system over a network, it is possible to send commandsvia the smart home device to another device, for instance a digitaltelevision, including a command to “click” on a support link for acampaign. In addition, the electronic device may be a VR headset, anaugmented reality headset, or a combination of the two. Backers may makea funding commitment for crowdfunding fundraising by either directpayment, buying a product, buying a service, or reward points.

As shown in FIG. 2, the IPTV crowdfunding system comprises, IPTVencoders, VOD servers, network switches, IPTV gateways, middleware, anEPG, middleware servers, IPTV management servers, switches, and datastorage. The middleware software may include a graphical user interface,a codec manager, a conditional access manager, a conditional accessinterface, a crowdfunding campaign management interface, a mediainterface, an events interface, a system settings interface, a 3rd partysystem interface, or a presentation manager.

In at least one embodiment, the IPTV crowdfunding fundraising apparatusis constructed using at least one electronic device, host computer,display device, and HDMI Cable device. Means are provided for connectingthe electronic device, host computer, display device, and HDMI Cabledevice. As configured, the IPTV crowdfunding fundraising apparatusprovides a means for displaying video content on a digital televisionfor a campaign backer, where he may interact with the campaign creatorby making a funding commitment. The campaign creator may transmitcrowdfunding fundraising requests to a display device so that a campaignbacker may interact with the campaign creator and make a fundingcommitment.

In at least one embodiment, the IPTV crowdfunding fundraising apparatusmay include an electronic device, including a personal computer, smartphone, digital tablet, smart watch, camera, or media device. Theelectronic device may also be a VR headset, augmented reality headset,or combination thereof. The display device may be a digital television,a video projector, a computer monitor, a smartwatch, smartphone, ortablet.

In at least one embodiment, the IPTV crowdfunding fundraising apparatusmay include a HDMI Cable device. The HDMI Cable device is constructedfrom a USB plug, a USB port, a PCB board with a processor or modem, aSIM card slot, a video processor, an antenna for receiving a signal froma mobile provider, and a processor or wireless modem with SOC. Inaddition, the HDMI Cable device has software to access an IPTVcrowdfunding system, whereby it may authorize the subscription from atelecom provider. The signals that the HDMI Cable device may use forsending and receiving data may be Wi-Fi, LTE network, 5 G network, LTEadvanced pro, 5 G mmWave, 4 g, or WiMAX.

As shown in FIG. 2, a user who creates a campaign does so by creating anaccount using a personal computer 19, smartphone 20, or other device.They can also use their IPTV television interface 71, shown in FIG. 3.The account may require the user to choose a username and password, orif the user is logged into their IPTV crowdfunding system, it ispossible to create an account automatically, by allowing the IPTVservice provider to verify and transfer basic personal information. Ifit is not possible to have the IPTV service provider automaticallytransfer basic personal information, the user may have to input somepersonal details, such as their name and their address. A creator mayalso input details about their bank account, including an account numberand routing number. It is possible with our system to send moneydirectly to accounts using direct depositing. It is also possible tomail a physical check to the user, if their campaign is successful, orto pay via other methods including PayPal or Google Wallet. Whichevermethod a creator chooses, they will need to input the informationrequired by that method to have any successfully received campaign fundstransferred to them.

A creator will build their campaign online using a graphic userinterface which will allow for the input of a campaign title,description, duration of the campaign, and funding goal. They will alsobe prompted to upload a video and any supporting images. Once all thenecessary information is inputted by a creator, the campaign can beeither immediately published on the IPTV broadcast and mobileapplication or it can first be reviewed by an administrator of thesystem, before being approved and published.

Once all the necessary information has been input into the IPTV basedsystem or mobile application, creators will be able to choose thedifferent methods they would like to offer to users in order to supporttheir campaign.

The creator of the campaign can select all the forms of support assignedto the campaign. If a creator only wants their backers to be able tosupport them by choosing a new supplier of electricity, the creator willbe able to limit support to only that method. When, with an IPTV-readydevice or mobile device, a user navigates on to the home screen of thecrowdfunding network shown in FIG. 11, from the previous screen shown inFIG. 10, they will be able to click on featured campaigns, click on acategory of campaigns, click on a keyword tag linked to a subset ofcampaigns, or enter a text string into a search box in order to searchfor campaigns. Once a user using one of the methods above reaches acampaign, the first screen will be the campaign overview screen, shownin FIG. 12, 16, 18, 19, 20. The overview screen will feature a campaigntitle, a campaign description, and may also include a video and stillimages. There will also be a button on every campaign overview screenthat may be clicked in order to support—or back—the campaign.

If a user chooses to support a project, they can initiate the process byclicking on an easy-to-see button, or otherwise expressing their intentto back the campaign, including using a voice recognition system withinthe IPTV-ready device or mobile device, as shown in FIG. 28. It shouldbe understood that within this disclosure the words project and campaignmay be used synonymously. The button 328 can be labeled “Support”, “Backthis Project,” or similar wording. It should be understood that withinthis disclosure that supporting a campaign or backing a campaign havethe same meaning. It is also possible to use other words such as but notlimited to “donate”, “lend”, “invest”, “pay”, “purchase”, “give”,“gift”, “endow” or other terms which are appropriate to the particularembodiment of the IPTV crowdfunding system, including but not limited todonation, rewards, lending, and equity based crowdfunding, where the keyterm is used for the same purpose—to initiate the funding of a campaign.Clicking on the button will lead to a screen which will allow users toselect a method of support, which is referred to as the “support methodsscreen,” shown in FIG. 15. Additionally it is possible for a popup,dropdown, or pullout menu to be triggered by the users choosing tosupport or back the campaign, shown in FIG. 12.

In this system, users can choose alternative methods of supporting acampaign, other than direct payment, including purchasing products andservices 51, engaging in marketing activities, and successfully gettingother people to purchase products and services or engage in marketingactivities. It is also possible to support a campaign through directpayment, for instance using a credit card 52.

If a user decides to support a campaign by purchasing a product orservice, she will click on a link leading to a screen, which can eitherbe within our IPTV crowdfunding system or mobile application or also onanother website. This will include an on-screen form or mobileapplication form 93 allowing for the necessary information to be enteredby the web users in order to complete the purchase of the product orservice, as shown for one embodiment of the system in FIG. 25. If theform resides on the network or on a mobile application, then theinformation can be transferred to a third party, if necessary. If thetransaction is successful, the third party will send back a confirmationmessage, stating that the purchase was successful and providing thesystem with the dollar amount allotted to the campaign. Funds can beraised using this method, because many product and service providers areable to pay a commission for the help in creating a new customer forthem. One example of a product or service is the purchasing of energy,including electricity and gas, as a method for supporting a campaign 94.

If a user chooses to support a campaign by purchasing a utility, likeelectricity or gas, through the site, they will be able to click on alink on the support methods screen, leading to a form 93. The form willrequire the user to enter their name, billing address, zip code, accountnumber, which can be found on a bill from the original electric company,and confirm their interest in purchasing their electricity from thecompany presented on the system. Other pieces of information might berequired to be entered as well.

Once all the forms are completed, and the user has successfullypurchased their electricity from a new company, a message will be sentfrom the company to our system including a confirmation identifying theinformation of the user, the date and time of the transaction, and acommission amount.

If the transaction is successful then the user will be directed back tothe support methods screen shown in FIG. 22, which will show thecommission dollar amount that will be directed to fund the campaign ofthe user's choice. If the user chooses, they can click on another methodof support, in order to increase the amount of money allotted to thecampaign. The reason why users may find purchasing a utility, likeelectricity, convenient is because there are no up-front costs. Also,they will continue to pay for electricity in the same way they paidbefore. It may also be possible to reduce their overall electricity billby purchasing their electricity through the system.

Other possible products and services which could be used as fundingmethods include utilities other than electricity, such as gas, digitalservices, internet access, video streaming services, insurance products,renter's insurance, car insurance, legal insurance, transportationservices, airline tickets, hotel and car rentals, and subscriptions tocar sharing services. Other possible products and services includephysical storage and moving services, renting a self-storage locker,hiring movers, or subscribing to storage services that include pickupand drop off. Possible funding methods may also include purchasingproducts from online retailers such as Amazon, computer equipment, audioand camera equipment, toys, household items, cleaning products, clothes,transportation products such as cars and bicycles, and holiday productssuch as wrapping paper and decorations. Because of the vast amount ofproducts and services that can easily be purchased online, the systemcould direct users to purchase any number of different products andservices, which would lead to funding being direct to the campaign theywant to support.

It is also possible to allow users to support the campaign of theirchoice by engaging in a conversation with a salesperson 83. This methodwould require the user to call a phone number, talk with a salespersonfor a predefined amount of time, but would not require them to purchaseany products or services.

Another method a user could use to fund a campaign is to engage inmarketing activities which could be tracked by the system. One exampleis if a user chooses to promote a product on social media. They might bedirected to include a key phrase on their Twitter, Facebook, orInstagram account. For example, the IPTV crowdfunding system describedin at least one embodiment may verify that the key phrase did appear ontheir social media account and for that service a fee could be chargedto the advertiser, which could then be directed toward funding acampaign.

Once a user who is supporting a campaign has completed at least onemethod of funding for the campaign they want to support, they can clickon a button which will appear on the support methods screen, allowingthe user to complete their funding. The button might be labeled “ConfirmSupport” or other label 82. Once the funding period for a campaign hasended, the total amount of funding raised for that campaign can betransferred to the owner of the campaign, minus any fees taken out bythe administrators of the system.

The system also would allow for the funding of campaigns at point ofsale terminals, shown in FIG. 26. These devices could be located inretail stores, kiosks, and could also be handheld for mobileapplications. A point of sale device may also include websites and appsrunning on a client device, including a smartphone, tablet, or personalcomputer. Campaigns 99 which have been selected for point of salefunding could have a very basic overview screen comprising a campaigntitle, image or video and description included in the checkout, shoppingcart, or rewards screen, or other locations on connected point of saledevices 97. A person using the point of sale device may be prompted,upon being presented with their total amount due, with the option ofcontributing money to the selected campaign or another campaignappearing on the device. Using the screen on the point of sale terminalit is possible to choose from a few different funding options includingrounding up the total to the nearest dollar amount, adding a specifiedamount of money, or applying rewards credits. Once the transaction,including a funding amount made using the point of sale interface, ismade, a message is sent to the IPTV crowdfunding system, and thecampaign that was supported is updated to account for the additionalfunding amount.

In one or more of the exemplary embodiments, the IPTV crowdfundingsystem may be implemented by a single party, but in most cases it willbe implemented by more than one in any combination, where the IPTVcrowdfunding system is comprised of many hardware and softwarecomponents provided by different parties. In one or more exemplaryembodiments, the functions described may be implemented in hardware,software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented insoftware, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one ormore instructions or code on a computer-readable medium.Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media andcommunication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of acomputer program from one place to another. A storage media may be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example,and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM,EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used tocarry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or datastructures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connectionis properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if thesoftware is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote sourceusing a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wirelesstechnologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxialcable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologiessuch as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition ofmedium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laserdisc, optical disc, DVD, floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disksusually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce dataoptically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be includedwithin the scope of computer-readable media.

In other embodiments in reference to this, for example, Linux-OS,android-OS, GNU/LINUX, KERNEL MICROSOFT WINDOWS, MS-DOS, computerhardware, CORE PROCESSOR, GNU, MIDDLEWARE CLIENT, FIREFOX BROWSER,LINUX, CHROME ANDROID, SEB PROTOCOLS, HTML 4 & 5 & 6, JAVASCRIPT, HTTP,SSL 2 & 3, IGMP V2 & V3, DHCP, SNMP, RTP/RTSP, SERVER MIDDLEWARE,SUBSCRIBER, MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH HTTP SERVER, TR-069 REMOTEMAINTEMANCE REMOTE, CONFIGURATION OVER HTTP, IP MULTICAST, OTT LIVE,UNICAST, VOD RTSP, ADATIVE STREAMING, ENABLING ADAPTIVE STREAMING TOSILVERLIGHT, OTHER CLIENTS OVER HTTP, APPLE HTTP, TCP/UDP, PROCESSOR,MEMORY FLASH, MEMORY RAM, TBD, HARD DRIVE, SUBSYSTEM, EPC, IMS, QOS,ASTERISK BASED PBX, YMAX, CLEC, CMOS RF, VLSI, PLATFORMS, TELCO, SDK,SOFTWARE PLATFORM, ENCODERSCMS, ISPS, APPS, DEVELOPERS, SIM INTERFACE,or the like.

When the terms “backers” and “creators” in the IPTV system are used,reference is to different users of the system; however, other termsmaybe be used.

It should be understood that when the disclosure states that it ispossible to click on, or navigate using a button or other graphic userinterface element. It is also possible to select the element with otherknown means, including using voice commands or hand gestures, which canbe interpreted by built in hardware in the IPTV devices. It is alsopossible to initiate the action by multi-touch finger swipes or fingercombination drags or taps, interpreted using built in hardware in theIPTV devices, including tablets or smartphones. Further, it is alsopossible for the backer to select a campaign using a one-touch ortwo-touch electronic device.

The previous description of the disclosed exemplary embodiments isprovided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use thepresent invention. Various modifications to these exemplary embodimentswill be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the genericprinciples defined herein may be applied to other embodiments withoutdeparting from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the presentinvention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown hereinbut is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principlesand novel features disclosed herein. These and other systems, methods,objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will beapparent to those skilled in the art from the following detaileddescription of the embodiments and drawings.

All documents mentioned herein are hereby incorporated in their entiretyby reference. References to items in the singular should be understoodto include items in the floral, and vice versa, unless explicitly statedotherwise or clear from the text. Grammatical conjunctions are intendedto express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations ofconjoined clauses, sentences, words, and the like, unless otherwisestated or clear from the context.

With respect to the above, it is to be understood that the invention isnot limited in its application to the details of construction and to thearrangement of the components listed or the steps set forth in thedescription or illustrated in the drawings. The various apparatus andmethods of the disclosed invention are capable of other embodiments, andof being practiced and carried out in various ways that would be readilyknown to those skilled in the art, given the present disclosure.Further, the terms and phrases used herein are for descriptive purposesand should not be construed as in any way limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conceptionupon which this disclosure is based by be utilized as a basis fordesigning other inventions with similar properties. It is importanttherefore that the embodiments, objects, and claims herein, be regardedas including such equivalent construction and methodology insofar asthey do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

It should be noted that the components in the figures are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, likereference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout thedifferent views. However, like parts do not always have like referencenumerals. Moreover, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts,where relative sizes, shapes and other detailed attributes may beillustrated schematically rather than literally or precisely.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of crowdfunding, the method comprising:receiving campaign information from at least one campaign creatorthrough an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) crowdfunding system overan Internet Protocol (IP) network to a host computer with anon-transitory computer readable medium; storing the campaigninformation on the host computer; displaying the campaign information ona display device; generating a campaign overview with a support buttonor support link to support a campaign; identifying a backer of thecampaign, wherein the backer supports a campaign with an input method onthe IPTV crowdfunding system; receiving a funding commitment from atleast one campaign backer through an electronic device over an InternetProtocol (IP) network to a host computer with a non-transitory computerreadable medium; and sending the funding commitment to the campaigncreator.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein said campaign information istransmitted to a third party point of sale device, wherein one or moreusers make a funding commitment to a campaign to complete a transactionvia the point of sale device, wherein a funding amount is transferred tothe IPTV crowdfunding system.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein saidcampaign information further comprises a title, description, fundingamount, and identifier of campaign creator.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein said campaign information is selected from the group consistingof recorded video content, video-on-demand (VOD), live video content,live streaming video, pictures, live text chat, live voice chat, andlive video chat.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said display deviceis selected from the group consisting of a digital television, a videoprojector, a computer monitor, a smartwatch, a smartphone, and a tablet.6. The method of claim 1, wherein said support button associated with acrowdfunding campaign is displayed on a digital television, remotecontrol, remote control case with screen, digital device with IPTVcrowdfunding, or an app installed on the display device.
 7. The methodof claim 1, wherein said backer supports a campaign with said inputmethod selected from the group consisting of voice commands, handgestures, and body movements.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein saidbacker supports a campaign with an electronic device with softwareinstalled on the device allowing for one-touch and two-touch funding ofcampaigns.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein said electronic device isselected from the group consisting of personal computers, smart phones,digital tablets, smart watches, cameras, and media devices.
 10. Themethod of claim 8, wherein said electronic device is selected from thegroup consisting of a virtual reality headset, augmented realityheadset, or combination thereof.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein saidfunding commitment for crowdfunding fundraising is selected from thegroup consisting of direct payment, buying a product, buying a service,and reward points.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein said IPTVcrowdfunding system further comprises, IPTV encoders, VOD servers,network switches, IPTV gateways, middleware, an electronic program guide(EPG), middleware servers, IPTV management servers, switches, and datastorage.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein said middleware softwarefurther comprises a graphical user interface, codec manager, conditionalaccess manager, conditional access interface, crowdfunding campaignmanagement interface, media interface, events interface, system settingsinterface, 3rd party system interface, and presentation manager.
 14. AnInternet Protocol Television (IPTV) crowdfunding fundraising apparatus,comprising: at least one electronic device; at least one host computer;at least one display device; at least one HDMI Cable device; means forconnecting said at least one electronic device, at least one hostcomputer, at least one display device, and at least one HDMI Cabledevice; means for displaying video content of a digital television forat least one campaign backer; and means for the campaign backer tointeract with at least one campaign creator with a funding commitment;wherein said campaign creator may transmit crowdfunding fundraisingrequests to at least one display device so that a campaign backer mayinteract with the campaign creator and make a funding commitment. 15.The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said electronic device has softwareinstalled on the device allowing for one touch and two-touch funding ofcampaigns.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said electronic deviceis selected from the group consisting of personal computers, smartphones, digital tablets, smart watches, cameras, and media devices. 17.The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said electronic device comprises avirtual reality headset, augmented reality headset, or combinationthereof.
 18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said display device isselected from the group consisting of a digital television, a videoprojector, a computer monitor, a smartwatch, smartphone, and tablet. 19.The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said HDMI Cable device, comprises: atleast one USB plug; at least one USB port; at least one PCB board with aprocessor or modem; at least one SIM card slot; at least one videoprocessor; at least one antenna for receiving signal from mobileprovider; at least one processor or wireless modem with System On Chip;software which has access to an IPTV crowdfunding system; means toauthorize the subscription from a telecom provider, wherein the signalsthat the device may use for sending and receiving data are selected fromthe group consisting of Wi-Fi, LTE network, 5 G network, LTE advancedpro, 5 G mmWave, 4 g, and WiMAX.
 20. A method of crowdfundingfundraising using an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) system tocreate campaigns, the method comprising: receiving, from at least onecampaign creator through an electronic device over an Internet Protocol(IP) network to a host computer with a non-transitory computer readablemedium, video content; storing video content on the host computer;receiving, from at least one campaign creator through an electronicdevice over an Internet Protocol (IP) network to a host computer with anon-transitory computer readable medium, campaign information; storingcampaign information on the host computer; generating a live broadcastvideo, VOD services, crowd funding campaign videos, or live streamingvideo content; displaying a live broadcast video, VOD services, crowdfunding campaign videos, or live streaming video content on a digitaltelevision for at least one campaign backer; providing a device for atleast one backer to interact with at least one campaign creator;receiving, from at least one campaign backer through an electronicdevice over an Internet Protocol (IP) network to a host computer with anon-transitory computer readable medium, a payment commitment.